Apparatus and method for producing an enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide

ABSTRACT

A medical fluid suspension generating apparatus for performing medical procedures includes a Venturi-agitating tip assembly composed of a multi-channel arrangement at a proximal first end thereof and a tip at a distal second end thereof. The apparatus also includes a compressed medical fluid unit fluidly connected to the multi-channel arrangement at a proximal first end of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly and a medical solution fluidly connected to the multi-channel arrangement at a proximal first end of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly. Pressurized gas, from the compressed medical fluid unit, and the medical solution are combined within the Venturi-agitating tip assembly in a manner generating an enriched medical suspension that is ultimately dispensed from the suspension delivery apparatus.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/053,530, entitled “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING CO₂ENRICHED MEDICAL FOAM,” filed Feb. 25, 2016, which is currently pending,which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/121,827, entitled “CATHETER FOR PRODUCING CO₂ ENRICHED MEDICAL FOAM,”filed Feb. 27, 2015, and this application is a continuation in part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/053,530, filed Feb. 25, 2016, whichis currently pending, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/509,459, entitled “APPARATUS AND PROCESS FORPRODUCING CO₂ ENRICHED MEDICAL FOAM,” filed Oct. 8, 2014, which is nowU.S. Pat. No. 9,744,342, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/068,680, entitled “APPARATUS AND PROCESS FORPRODUCING CO₂ ENRICHED MEDICAL FOAM,” filed May 17, 2011, which is nowU.S. Pat. No. 8,876,749, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/652,845, entitled “PORTABLE MEDICAL GAS DELIVERYSYSTEM,” filed Jan. 6, 2010, which is abandoned, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/210,368,entitled “PORTABLE MEDICAL FOAM APPARATUS,” filed Sep. 15, 2008, whichis abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/945,674, entitled “PORTABLE EVAPORATIVE SNOW APPARATUS,”filed Nov. 27, 2007, which is now U.S. Pat. No. 7,543,760, which claimsthe benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/867,323,entitled “PORTABLE EVAPORATIVE SNOW APPARATUS,” filed Nov. 27, 2006, thedisclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to an apparatus and process for producing anenriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂).

2. Description of the Related Art

The present invention utilizes the Venturi effect to produce an enrichedmedical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) for use in variousapplications. The apparatus of the present invention is simple tomanufacture and use because it does not require an impeller andincorporated fan in order to create and dispense the enriched medicalsuspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂).

The Venturi effect is an example of Bernoulli's principle, in the caseof incompressible fluid flow through a tube or pipe with a constrictionin it. The fluid velocity must increase through the constriction tosatisfy the equation of continuity, while its pressure must decrease dueto conservation of energy; the gain in kinetic energy is supplied by adrop in pressure or a pressure gradient force.

The limiting case of the Venturi effect is choked flow, in which aconstriction in a pipe or channel limits the total flow rate through thechannel because the pressure cannot drop below zero in the constriction.Choked flow is used to control the delivery rate of water and otherfluids through spigots and other types of valves. The portable apparatusof the present invention utilizes a source of pressurized medical fluid,to produce the desired pressure and gas flow for the effective creationof an enriched medical suspension.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides for a novel apparatus for producing anenriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) as well as a processfor utilizing such enriched medical suspension in medical treatment, inparticular, enhanced imaging via the application of carbon dioxide(CO₂). One embodiment of the present invention features an apparatus forproducing and delivering an enriched medical suspension of carbondioxide (CO₂) comprising (i) a suspension delivery catheter including asyringe containing carbon dioxide (CO₂), a dual lumen catheter and aVenturi-agitating tip assembly; and (ii) a compressed medical fluid unithaving at least one container of pressurized medical carbon dioxide(CO₂) and the gas regulator valve.

The pressurized gas is preferably medical carbon dioxide (CO₂). However,it is appreciated other suitable pressurized gases may be used inaccordance with the present invention.

The Venturi-agitating tip assembly includes a novel arrangement by whichpressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) enters a second end of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly through a gas inlet. The resultantpressure produced within the Venturi-agitating tip assembly draws amedical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into the interior of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly through a second inlet. The pressurizedmedical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and the medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂) are mixed together to form an enriched medical suspension ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) that continues to travel towards the first end ofthe Venturi-agitating tip assembly where the enriched medical suspensionof carbon dioxide (CO₂) is sprayed upon the inner lumen of a vessel inorder to provide an enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂)for the purpose of improved contrast. Thus, the enriched medicalsuspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) can be delivered and applied byspraying or washing the enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide(CO₂) upon the inner lumen of a vessel.

The present invention also relates to methods of medical treatments. Inone embodiment the invention is a method for providing an enrichedmedical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) applying such enrichedmedical suspension to the vascular system comprising the steps of: (i)providing a portable medical fluid apparatus; (ii) providing a container(for example, a syringe) with a medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂), the container having an entrance, an exit and a release meansregulating the exit; (iii) attaching a medically acceptable directionaldevice from the apparatus to the entrance of the container; (iv)initiating an actuator of the apparatus to release the pressurizedmedical carbon dioxide (CO₂); (v) activating the release mechanism toproduce an enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂); and (vi)applying the enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) to apredetermined vascular location via a catheter or needle.

In medical uses, CO₂ is used because it is safer and has fewercomplications than air or oxygen in the same uses. CO₂ diffuses morenaturally in body tissues and is absorbed in the body more rapidly andwith fewer side effects. The present invention can deliver CO₂ from anadjustable port that controls the psi from 0 psi to 120 psi. Previousmethods utilizing large CO₂ tanks and regulators are dangerous becauseof the risk of a seal, valve, or part malfunction causing a projectilein a medical setting and the potential for explosive delivery. Thepresent invention is safer as it eliminates these possibilities ofmalfunction.

The present invention requires very little space to store, as opposed tothe cumbersome existing tank systems and is much easier to use, with apush button actuator to initiate operation. The present invention ismuch less expensive than current CO₂ tank systems. Acquisition of theCO₂ in the present invention now requires only cartridges which can bedelivered in a small box. The current tanks require filling at a fillingstation which involves the transport of a large quantity of CO₂ which isultimately inconvenient.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other objects, features and advantages will occur from the followingdescription of a preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the compressed medical fluid unit with acapsule secured thereto.

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the compressed medical fluid unitwith a capsule secured thereto.

FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of the compressed medical fluid unitshown in FIG. 2 with a partial cutaway of the fitting to show thecylinder cartridge puncture valve.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the suspension delivery catheter and asyringe containing a medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO2).

FIG. 5 is a close-up exploded view of the Venturi-agitating tip assemblyshown in FIG. 4.

FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C respectively show a longitudinal cross sectionalview, a perspective view and a perspective cross sectional view of aVenturi-agitating tip assembly in accordance with an alternate firstembodiment.

FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C and 7D are respectively a perspective view, alongitudinal cross-sectional perspective view, an exploded view and alateral cross-sectional view of a Venturi-agitating tip assembly inaccordance with an alternate second embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a Venturi-agitating tip assembly inaccordance with an alternate third embodiment.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are respectively a longitudinal cross-sectional view anda lateral cross-sectional view of a Venturi-agitating tip assembly inaccordance with an alternate fourth embodiment;

FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and 10E are respectively a perspective view, anexploded view, a front partial cross-sectional view, a rear partialcross-sectional view and a lateral cross-sectional view in accordancewith a fifth embodiment;

FIGS. 11A and 11B respectively show a perspective view and across-sectional view of a Venturi-agitating tip assembly in accordancewith the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein.It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments aremerely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in variousforms. Therefore, the details disclosed herein are not to be interpretedas limiting, but merely as a basis for teaching one skilled in the arthow to make and/or use the invention.

With reference to the various figures and embodiments, a medical fluidsuspension generating apparatus for performing medical proceduresincludes a Venturi-agitating tip assembly composed of a multi-channelarrangement at a proximal first end thereof and a tip at a distal secondend thereof. The apparatus also includes a compressed medical fluid unitincluding pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) fluidly connected tothe multi-channel arrangement at a proximal first end of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly and a medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂) fluidly connected to the multi-channel arrangement at a proximalfirst end of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly. Pressurized gas, fromthe compressed medical fluid unit, and the medical solution of carbondioxide are combined within the Venturi-agitating tip assembly in amanner generating an enriched medical suspension that is ultimatelydispensed from the suspension delivery apparatus. Through the use of thepresent medical fluid suspension generating apparatus procedures may beperformed without the use of tumescent anesthesia, thereby alleviatingdiscomforting for patients and simplifying procedures to medicalpractitioners.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, the compressed medical fluid unit 12is disclosed. The compressed medical fluid unit 12 is disclosed indetail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/957,657, filed Sep. 26,2014, entitled “DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR THE EFFECTIVE, RELIABLE ANDFOOLPROOF DELIVERY OF CONTROLLED AMOUNTS OF A MEDICAL FLUID,” which isincorporated herein by reference. With reference to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3,the compressed medical fluid unit 12 includes an inlet port 16 to whicha source of pressurized medical fluid, for example, a pressurized gascylinder containing medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) 18 is selectivelyconnected and an outlet port 20 in communication with the inlet port 16,and ultimately the at least one pressurized gas (CO₂) cylinder 18.

The pressurized gas cylinder 18 is secured to, and maintained in fluidcommunication with, the integrated compressed medical fluid unit 12 by acylinder cartridge puncture valve 22 and a fitting 24 formed at theinlet port 16 of the compressed medical fluid unit 12. In accordancewith a preferred embodiment, the cylinder cartridge puncture valve 22has a mechanism for piercing the pressurized gas cylinder 18, as isknown in the art, and for holding or securing the pressurized gascylinder 18 in place.

The pressurized gas exits the inlet port 16 and passes through aregulator valve assembly 26 controlled by a press button actuator 28 andregulator adjustment dial 30. The regulator valve assembly 26 dictatesthe pressure of the gas as it ultimately exits the outlet port 20. Inaccordance with a preferred embodiment, the regulator valve assembly 26has a selective outlet pressure in the range of 7 psi to 19 psi. Theoutlet pressure is achieved by rotating the regulator adjustment dial 30of the button actuator 28. In addition, to regulating the appliedpressure, the regulator valve assembly 26 also includes a valve 26 vthat controls the passage of gas from the inlet port 16 to the outletport 20. The valve 26 v is controlled via a push button mechanism 28 pin the button actuator 28 such that a user may selectively determinewhen gas may pass therethrough to the outlet port 20. In accordance witha preferred embodiment, the CO₂ flow rate is less than 12 NL/min (normalliters per minute).

As mentioned above, the regulator valve assembly 26 also includes aregulator adjustment dial 30 which controls the pressure permitted toexit the outlet port 20 by either rotating the regulator adjustment dial30 clockwise or counterclockwise as may be desired to adjust the appliedpressure. The applied pressure may be monitored using the PSI gaugeformed on the front face 32 of the integrated compressed medical fluidunit 12.

In practice, a pressurized gas cylinder 18 is applied to the compressedmedical fluid unit 12 in the following manner. The adjustment dial 30 isfirst disengaged (loosened) by rotating the same in a counter-clockwisedirection so as to prevent the passage of pressurized gas therethrough.The pressurized gas cylinder 18 is then screwed into the fitting 24 andthe cylinder cartridge puncture valve 22 punctures pressurized gascylinder 18. The system is then actuated as by twisting the adjustmentdial in a clockwise direction until a desired pressure is establishedand operating the same as described above through the manipulation ofthe press button actuator 28 and the adjustment dial 30.

As mentioned above, the outlet port 20 is in fluid communication withthe inlet port 16 for transport of pressurized medical carbon dioxide(CO₂) in accordance with the present invention. The outlet port 20 isprovided with a luer connection 34 for the secure and selectiveattachment of an outlet tube 36 thereto.

As briefly mentioned above, the pressurized gas cylinder 18 is securedto the compressed medical fluid unit 12 by a cartridge puncture valve 22as is commonly known. Pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) leavesthe regulator valve assembly 26 at the regulator adjusted pressure andgoes to the outlet port 20.

In accordance with an alternate embodiment, an integrated compressedmedical fluid unit as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/497,691, filed Sep. 26, 2014, entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THEEFFECTIVE, RELIABLE AND FOOLPROOF DELIVERY OF CONTROLLED AMOUNTS OF AMEDICAL FLUID,” which is incorporated herein by reference, may beutilized in accordance with the present invention.

With reference to FIG. 4, a suspension delivery catheter 2 features adual lumen catheter 260 connecting a Venturi-agitating tip assembly 280to pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the compressed medicalfluid unit 12 and a medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from asyringe 290. The syringe 290 includes a one-way valve at its outlet toensure that medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe290 only flows out of the syringe 290. The suspension delivery catheter2 includes a first end (or distal end) 262 having the Venturi-agitatingtip assembly 280 and a second end (or proximal end) 264 to which thecompressed medical fluid unit 12 and the medical solution of carbondioxide (CO₂) are fluidly connected for the passage of pressurizedmedical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂). As will be appreciated based upon the following disclosure, adual lumen catheter 260 is connected to the Venturi-agitating tipassembly by securing a medical fluid hose inlet 230 and a suspensiondelivery line 225 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 280 to a firstlumen 272 and a second lumen 274 of the dual lumen catheter 260,respectively. The provision of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 280 atthe very end of the catheter allows for the mixing of pressurizedmedical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and the medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂) immediately adjacent the discharge point.

A micro hose 256 connects the compressed medical fluid unit 12 to thefirst lumen 272 of the dual lumen catheter 260 at a proximal first end266 thereof for the transmission of the pressurized medical carbondioxide (CO₂) from compressed medical fluid unit 12 to theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 280. As such, pressurized medical carbondioxide (CO₂) leaving the compressed medical fluid unit 12 via theoutlet air port 25 enters the first lumen 272 of the dual lumen catheter260 via micro hose 256. After passing through the first lumen 272 of thedual lumen catheter 260, the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂)passes through medical fluid hose inlet 230 of the Venturi-agitating tipassembly 280 and enters the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 280 of thesuspension delivery catheter 2. As will be explained below in greaterdetail, the medical fluid suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) generatedat the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 280 is directly applied to a veinrequiring treatment with the medical fluid of carbon dioxide (CO₂).

As to the connection of the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) tothe suspension delivery catheter 2, the medical solution of carbondioxide (CO₂) is delivered to the second lumen 274 of the dual lumencatheter 260 at the proximal first end 266 thereof, and ultimately tothe Venturi-agitating tip assembly 280, via a container, in particular,a syringe 290, connected to the second lumen 274 of the dual lumencatheter 260 by a supply line 216. As discussed above, the syringe 290includes a one-way valve at its outlet to ensure that medical solutionof carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290 only flows out of thesyringe 290. After passing through the second lumen 274 of the duallumen catheter 260, the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) fromthe syringe 290 travels into the solution delivery line 225 of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 280 where it is combined with pressurizedmedical carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the compressed medical fluid unit 12to form an enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂).

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, and as briefly discussed above, theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 280 includes a proximal first end 282 anda distal second end 284. The Venturi-agitating tip assembly 280 includesan upper chamber 240 at the distal second end 284 of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 280 and a lower chamber 235 at theproximal first end 282 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 280,wherein a distal second end 269 of the dual lumen catheter 260 isfluidly coupled to the lower chamber 235 at the proximal first end 282of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 280. The upper chamber 240 and thelower chamber 235 are separated by a wall 237 having an aperture 239formed therein allowing for the passage of pressurized medical carbondioxide (CO₂) released in the lower chamber 235 to pass into the upperchamber 240.

The suspension delivery line 225 passes through the lower chamber 235and has an outlet 220 for delivering the medical solution of carbondioxide (CO₂) into the upper chamber 240. The medical solution of carbondioxide (CO₂) is delivered to the suspension delivery line 225 via thesyringe 290 and the dual lumen catheter 260. More particularly, themedical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290 travelsthrough the second lumen 274 of the dual lumen catheter 260 and into thesolution delivery line 225 when pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂)enters the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 280 through the inlet 230after being actuated and released from the compressed medical fluid unit12. The pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) entering theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 280 imparts negative pressure on themedical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the syringe 290 and drawsthe medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290through the supply line 216, through the second lumen 274 of the duallumen catheter 260, and into the solution delivery line 225 due to theVenturi effect. The syringe plunger 290 p is used to regulate or stopflow of medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290.Pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) traveling from the lowerchamber 235 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 280 to the upperchamber 240 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly via aperture 239 inthe wall 237 creates negative pressure inside the Venturi-agitating tipassembly 280, such that the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂)exiting the outlet 220 of the solution delivery line 225 mixes withpressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the solution delivery line225 and ultimately forms an enriched medical suspension of carbondioxide (CO₂) that is sprayed upon the inner lumen of a vessel via thespray tip 215. The force of the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂)traveling through the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 280 and exitingthrough the spray tip as part of an enriched medical suspension ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) projects the enriched medical suspension of carbondioxide (CO₂) from the distal second end 284 of the Venturi-agitatingtip assembly 280 as a spray and onto the inner lumen of a vessel.

It is appreciated various tip assemblies and enriched medical suspensiongenerating structures may be employed in accordance with the presentinvention. In accordance with a first alternate embodiment as shown withreference to FIGS. 6A-6C, the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 380 employsa Venturi arrangement with a mixing chamber 324. The Venturi-agitatingtip assembly 380 has a proximal first end 380 a and a distal second end380 b. The Venturi-agitating tip assembly 380 includes a hollowcylindrical elongated body 310 having a proximal first end 312, whichcoincides with the proximal first end 380 a of the Venturi-agitating tipassembly 380, and a distal second end 314. The proximal first end 380 aof the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 380 includes a multi-channelarrangement 381 including first and second inputs 316, 318 forattachment to the dual lumen catheter 360. The first and second inputs316, 318 respectively lead to a first channel 320 and a second channel322 of the multi-channel arrangement 381 of the Venturi-agitating tipassembly 380. The first and second channels 320, 322 lead to, and are influid communication with, a mixing chamber 324 (which also forms part ofthe multi-channel arrangement 381) located in the central portion 326 ofthe Venturi-agitating tip assembly 380, that is, between the proximalfirst end 380 a and the distal second end 380 b. Located at the distalsecond end 380 b of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 380, and securedto the distal second end 314 of the elongated body 310, is a spray tip328 directing the enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) ina spray pattern onto the inner lumen of a vessel.

The first channel 320 and the second channel 322 are interconnected in amanner creating a Venturi effect causing the pressurized medical carbondioxide (CO₂) to effectively pull the medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂) through the second channel 322 and into the mixing chamber 324.This is achieved by providing with the first channel 320 with a reduceddiameter as it extends from the proximal first end 312 of the elongatedbody 310 (that is, the first end 320 a of the first channel 320) to thecentral portion 326 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 380 (that is,the second end 320 b of the first channel 320). In accordance with apreferred embodiment, the diameter of the first channel 320 decreasesfrom a diameter of 0.038 inches adjacent the proximal first end 312 ofthe elongated body 310 to a diameter of 0.017 inches adjacent the mixingchamber 324.

As mentioned above, the second channel 322 is in fluid communicationwith the first channel 320. This is achieved by the provisional of atransverse channel 330 connecting the second end 320 b of the firstchannel 320 with the second end 322 b of the second channel 322. Inparticular, the second channel 322 includes a first end 322 a adjacentthe proximal first end 312 of the elongated body 310 and a second end322 b adjacent the mixing chamber 324 (although not directly in fluidcommunication with the mixing chamber 324) and the transverse channel330. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the diameter of thesecond channel 322 is 0.031 inches and remains consistent as it extendsfrom the first end 322 a thereof to the second end 322 b thereof.

The first lumen 372 of a dual lumen catheter 360 supplies thepressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and the second lumen 374supplies the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂). As such, thefirst lumen 372 is connected to, and in fluid communication with, thefirst channel 320 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 380 and thesecond lumen 374 is connected to, and in fluid communication with, thesecond channel 322 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 380. Inpractice, and as described above in conjunction with the priorembodiment, the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from thesyringe 290 travels through the second lumen 374 of the dual lumencatheter 360 and into the second channel 322 when pressurized medicalcarbon dioxide (CO₂) gas enters the first channel 320 and passes thetransverse channel 330 into the mixing chamber 324 after being actuatedand released from the compressed medical fluid unit 12. The pressurizedmedical carbon dioxide (CO₂) entering the Venturi-agitating tip assembly380 imparts negative pressure on the medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂) in the syringe 290 and draws the medical solution of carbondioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290 through the second channel 322,through the second lumen 374 of the dual lumen catheter 360, and intothe mixing chamber 324 due to the Venturi effect. The medical solutionof carbon dioxide (CO₂) and the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂)are then mixed within the mixing chamber 324 to form an enriched medicalsuspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂). The syringe plunger 290 p is used toregulate or stop flow of medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) fromthe syringe 290.

The pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and medical solution ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) mixing in the mixing chamber 324 arc then forcedthrough the spray tip 328 from which the enriched medical suspension ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) is sprayed upon the inner lumen of a vessel. Theforce of the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) traveling throughthe Venturi-agitating tip assembly 380 and exiting through the spray tipas part of an enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂)projects the enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) fromthe distal second end 384 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 380 as aspray and onto the inner lumen of a vessel.

In accordance with a second embodiment as shown with reference to FIGS.7A-7D, a Venturi-agitating tip assembly 480 employs a sintered materialtip 428 in conjunction with a multi-channel arrangement 481 where thepressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and medical solution of carbondioxide (CO₂) are mixed and forced through the spray tip 428. TheVenturi-agitating tip assembly 480 includes a proximal first end 480 aand a distal second end 480 b. The Venturi-agitating tip assembly 480includes a hollow cylindrical elongated body 410 having a proximal firstend 412, which coincides with the proximal first end 480 a of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 480, and a distal second end 414. TheVenturi-agitating tip assembly 480 is adapted for use with a dual lumencatheter 460, in particular a dual lumen catheter having concentriclumens, wherein the outer first lumen 472 is annular shaped for thepassage of pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) (and has an outerdiameter of 0.092 inches at the outer wall thereof and an inner diameterof 0.042 inches at the inner wall thereof) and the inner second lumen474 is circular shaped for the passage of the medical solution of carbondioxide (CO₂) (and has a diameter of 0.030 inches). The inner secondlumen 474 is supported within the outer first lumen 472 by first andsecond radially extending rib members 473 a, 473 b (each having athickness of 0.006 inches) that extend from the outer surface of thesecond lumen 474 to the inner surface of the outer first lumen 472. Inthis way the outer first lumen 472 is divided into first and secondsemicircular passageways 475 a, 475 b.

The proximal first end 480 a of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 480,in particular, the proximal first end 412 of the elongated body 410 isformed with two projections 432, 434 shaped and dimensioned forengagement within the outer first lumen 472 of the catheter 460 in amanner blocking a substantial portion of the outer first lumen 472. Thetwo projections 432, 434 are arcuate members shaped and dimensioned torespectively block substantial portions of the first and secondsemicircular passageways 475 a, 475 b while creating four smallpassageways 436, each of approximately 0.031 inches (along the Y-axis asshown in FIG. 5D) by 0.050 inches (along the X-axis as shown in FIG. 5D)for the passage of pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂)therethrough. The four small passageways 436 are defined by spacesexisting between the edges of the arcuate members 432, 434 and the firstand second radially extending rib members 473 a, 473 b.

The remainder of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 480 includes acentral mixing chamber 424 that is in fluid communication with thesecond lumen 474 and the four small passageways 436 feeding pressurizedmedical carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the first lumen 472. Secured to, andclosing off, the second end 414 of the elongated body 410 is a spray tip428, which is thereby positioned at the distal second end 480 b of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 480. Attachment of the spray tip 428 tothe elongated body 410 is achieved by providing the spray tip 428 with aprojection 438 that seats within the opening at the second end 414 ofthe elongated body 410.

The first lumen 472 and the second lumen 474 are interconnected in amanner causing the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) toeffectively pull the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) throughthe second lumen 474 and into the mixing chamber 424. In practice, themedical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290 travelsthrough the second lumen 474 of the dual lumen catheter 460 and into themixing chamber 424 when pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) passesthrough the four small passageways 436 and enters the mixing chamber 424(where the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290and the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) mix to form an enrichedmedical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂)) after being actuated andreleased from compressed medical fluid unit 12. The pressurized medicalcarbon dioxide (CO₂) entering the mixing chamber 424 imparts negativepressure on the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in syringe 290and draws the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe290 through the second lumen 474 and into the mixing chamber 424. Thesyringe plunger 290 p is used to regulate or stop flow of medicalsolution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290.

The pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and medical solution ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) mixing in the mixing chamber 424 are then forcedthrough the spray tip 428 from which an enriched medical suspension ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) is sprayed upon the inner surface of a lumen. Theforce of the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) traveling throughthe Venturi-agitating tip assembly 480 and exiting through the spray tipas part of an enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂)projects the enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) fromthe distal second end 484 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 480 as aspray and onto the inner lumen of a vessel.

In accordance with a third embodiment as shown with reference to FIG. 8,a Venturi-agitating tip assembly 580 is composed solely of a poroussintered material tip 528 shaped and dimensioned for attachment to theend of a dual lumen catheter 560, in particular, a dual lumen catheter560 having concentric lumens, wherein the outer first lumen 572 isannular shaped for the passage of pressurized medical carbon dioxide(CO₂) (and has an outer diameter of 0.092 inches at the outer wallthereof and an inner diameter of 0.042 inches at the inner wall thereof)and the inner second lumen 574 is circular shaped for the passage of themedical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) (and has a diameter of 0.030inches). The inner second lumen 574 is supported within the outer firstlumen 572 by first and second radially extending rib members (as shownin FIGS. 7C and 7D) that extend from the outer surface of the secondlumen 574 to the inner surface of the outer first lumen 572. In this waythe outer first lumen 572 is divided into first and second semicircularpassageways 575 a, 575 b.

The proximal first end 512 of the sintered material tip 528 is formedwith a circular recess 550 shaped and dimensioned to correspond with theoutlet of the first lumen 572 at the distal end of the dual lumencatheter 560. A longitudinally extending projection 552 extends from thecenter of the proximal first end 512 and is shaped and dimensioned forfrictional placement within the central second lumen 574 so as to closeoff (with the exception of the porous nature of the sintered materialtip) the second lumen 574. The attachment of the sintered material tip528 at the distal end of the dual lumen catheter 560 is achieved by theprovision of a shrink wrap member 554 at the junction of the dual lumencatheter 560 with the sintered material tip 528.

The first lumen 572 and the second lumen 574 are interconnected via thesintered material tip 528 in a manner causing the pressurized medicalcarbon dioxide (CO₂) to effectively pull the medical solution of carbondioxide (CO₂) through the second lumen 574 and into the sinteredmaterial tip 528 where they mix to form an enriched medical suspensionof carbon dioxide (CO₂) and are ultimately forced through the sinteredmaterial tip 528. In practice, the medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂) from syringe 290 travels through the second lumen 574 of the duallumen catheter 560 and into the sintered material tip 528 whenpressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) passes through the first lumen572 and into the sintered material tip 528. The pressurized medicalcarbon dioxide (CO₂) entering the sintered material tip 528 impartsnegative pressure on the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) insyringe 290 and draws the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) fromthe syringe 290 through the second lumen 574 and into the sinteredmaterial tip 528. The syringe plunger 290 p is used to regulate or stopflow of medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290.

The pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and medical solution ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) mixing in the sintered material tip 528 are thenforced through the sintered material tip 528 where an enriched medicalsuspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) forms on the exterior surface 528 aof the sintered material tip 528. In particular, the force of thepressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) traveling through theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 580 and exiting through the sinteredmaterial tip 528 lifts the enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide(CO₂) outward from the exterior surface 528 a of the sintered materialtip 528 and projects the enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide(CO₂) from the second end 580 b of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly580.

In accordance with a fourth embodiment as shown with reference to FIGS.9A and 9B, a Venturi-agitating tip assembly 680 employs a spray tip 628in conjunction with a multi-channel arrangement 681 where thepressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and medical solution of carbondioxide (CO₂) are mixed in the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 680 andforced through the spray tip 628. The Venturi-agitating tip assembly 680includes a proximal first end 680 a and a distal second end 680 b. TheVenturi-agitating tip assembly 680 includes a cylindrical hollowelongated body 610 having a proximal first end 612, which coincides withthe proximal first end 680 a of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 680,and a distal second end 614, which coincides with the distal second end680 b of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 680. The Venturi-agitatingtip assembly 680 is adapted for use with a dual lumen catheter 660, inparticular a dual lumen catheter having concentric lumens, wherein theouter first lumen 672 is annular shaped for the passage of pressurizedmedical carbon dioxide (CO₂) (and has an outer diameter of 0.092 inchesat the outer wall thereof and an inner diameter of 0.042 inches at theinner wall thereof) and the inner second lumen 674 is circular shapedfor the passage of the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) (and hasa diameter of 0.030 inches). The inner second lumen 674 is supportedwithin the outer first lumen 672 by first and second radially extendingrib members (as shown in FIGS. 7C and 7D) that extend from the outersurface of the second lumen 674 to the inner surface of the outer firstlumen 672. In this way the outer first lumen 672 is divided into firstand second semicircular passageways 675 a, 675 b.

The proximal first end 612 of the elongated body 610 at the proximalfirst end 680 a of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 680 includes anend wall 661 (created by adhesive injected to limit flow from the firstlumen 672) with two projecting channels 662 a, 662 b (each with adiameter of 0.015 inches) shaped and dimensioned for engagement with thefirst and second semicircular passageways 675 a, 675 b. The end wall 660of the proximal first end 612 of the elongated body 610 is also providedwith a central aperture 664 shaped and dimensioned for alignment withthe second lumen 674. The remainder of the proximal first end 612 of theelongated body 610 is closed off thus limiting and controlling the flowof materials into the central mixing chamber 624.

The remainder of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 680 includes acentral mixing chamber 624 that is in fluid communication with thesecond lumen 674 and the two projecting channels 662 a, 662 b feedingpressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the first lumen 672. As aresult, and as will be explained below in greater detail the medicalsolution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and the pressurized medical carbondioxide (CO₂) are mix within the mixing chamber 624 to form an enrichedmedical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂). Secured to, and closing off,the second end 614 of the elongated body 610 is a spray tip 628, whichis thereby positioned at the distal second end 680 b of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 680.

The first lumen 672 and the second lumen 674 are interconnected in amanner causing the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) toeffectively pull the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) throughthe second lumen 674 and into the mixing chamber 624. In practice, themedical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290 travelsthrough the second lumen 674 of the dual lumen catheter 660 and into themixing chamber 624 when pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) passesthrough the first and second projecting channels 662 a, 662 b and entersthe mixing chamber 624 after being actuated and released from thecompressed medical fluid unit 12. The pressurized medical carbon dioxide(CO₂) entering the mixing chamber 624 imparts negative pressure on themedical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the syringe 290 and drawsthe medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290through second lumen 674 and into the mixing chamber 624. The syringeplunger 290 p is used to regulate or stop flow of medical solution ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290.

The pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and medical solution ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) mixing in the mixing chamber 624 is then forcedthrough the spray tip 628 from which an enriched medical suspension ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) is sprayed. The force of the pressurized medicalcarbon dioxide (CO₂) traveling through the Venturi-agitating tipassembly 680 and exiting through the spray tip as part of an enrichedmedical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) projects the enriched medicalsuspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the distal second end 684 of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 680 as a spray and onto the inner lumenof a vessel.

In accordance with a fifth embodiment as shown with reference to FIGS.10A-10E, a Venturi-agitating tip assembly 780 employs a spray tip 728 inconjunction with a multi-channel arrangement 781 where the pressurizedmedical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂) are mixed to form an enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide(CO₂) and forced through the spray tip 728. The Venturi-agitating tipassembly 780 includes proximal first end 780 a and a distal second end780 b. The Venturi-agitating tip assembly 780 includes a hollowcylindrical elongated body 710 having a proximal first end 712, whichcoincides with the proximal first end 780 a of the Venturi-agitating tipassembly 780, and a distal second end 714. The Venturi-agitating tipassembly 780 is adapted for use with a multi-lumen catheter 760, inparticular a triple lumen catheter having parallel lumens, wherein thefirst and second lumens 772, 773 are circular shaped (each with adiameter of 0.039 inches) and are dimensioned for the passage ofpressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and the third lumen 774 issemi-circular shaped (with a radius of 0.047 inches) and is dimensionedfor the passage of the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂).

The proximal first end 712 of the elongated body 710 at the proximalfirst end 780 a of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 780 includesfirst, second and third inputs 716, 717, 718 for attachment to themulti-lumen catheter 760. The first and second inputs 716, 717 lead to afirst channel 720 and the third input 718 to a second channel 722. Assuch, the proximal first end 712 of the elongated body 710 at theproximal first end 780 a of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 780 isformed with two circular tubular projections 732, 734, defining thefirst and second inputs 716, 717. The circular tubular projections 732,734 (each with an inner diameter of 0.027 inches and an outer diameterof 0.039 inches) are shaped and dimensioned for engagement within thefirst and second lumens 772, 773 of the catheter 760 in a mannerallowing for the flow of fluid from the first and second lumens 772, 773and into the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 780. The two circulartubular projections 732, 734 are shaped and dimensioned to fit withinthe first and second lumens 772, 773 while maintaining passageways forthe passage of pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) therethrough.

The first and second channels 720, 722 lead to, and are in fluidcommunication with, a mixing chamber 724 located in the central portion726 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 780, that is, between theproximal first end 712 and the distal second end 714 of the elongatedbody. Secured to the distal second end 714 of the elongated body 710,and positioned at the distal second end 780 b of the Venturi-agitatingtip assembly, is a spray tip 728 having three passageways 728 a, 728 b,728 c extending from the mixing chamber 724 to the exterior at thedistal end of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 780.

The first channel 720 and the second channel 722 are interconnected in amanner creating a Venturi effect causing the pressurized medical carbondioxide (CO₂) to effectively pull the medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂) through the second channel 722 and into the mixing chamber 724.This is achieved by providing the first channel 720 with a reduceddiameter (decreasing from 0.038 inches to 0.017 inches) as it extendsfrom the proximal first end 712 of the elongated body 710 (that is, thefirst end 720 a of the first channel 720) to the central portion 726 ofthe Venturi-agitating tip assembly 780 (that is, the second end 720 b ofthe first channel 720). In accordance with a preferred embodiment, thediameter of the first channel 720 decreases from a diameter of 0.038inches adjacent the proximal first end 712 of the elongated body 710 toa diameter of 0.017 inches adjacent the mixing chamber 724.

As mentioned above, the second channel 722 is in fluid communicationwith the first channel 720. This is achieved by the provisional of atransverse channel 730 connecting the second end 720 b of the firstchannel 720 with the second end 722 b of the second channel 722. Inparticular, the second channel 722 includes a first end 722 a adjacentthe proximal first end 712 of the elongated body 710 and a second end722 b adjacent the mixing chamber 724 (although not directly in fluidcommunication with the mixing chamber 724) and the transverse channel730. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the diameter of thesecond channel 722 is 0.047 inches and remains consistent as it extendsfrom the first end 722 a thereof to the second end 722 b thereof.

The first and second lumens 772, 773 supply the pressurized medicalcarbon dioxide (CO₂) and the third lumen 774 supplies the medicalsolution of carbon dioxide (CO₂). As such, the first and second lumens772, 773 are connected to, and in fluid communication, with the firstchannel 720 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 780 and the thirdlumen 774 is connected to, and in fluid communication, with the secondchannel 722 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 780. In practice, themedical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from syringe 290 travelsthrough third lumen 774 of multi-lumen lumen catheter 760 and into thesecond channel 722 when pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) gasenters the first channel 720 and passes the transverse channel 730(having a size of 0.020 inches) into the mixing chamber 724 after beingactuated and released from compressed medical fluid unit 12. Thepressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) entering the Venturi-agitatingtip assembly 780 imparts negative pressure on the medical solution ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) in syringe 290 and draws the medical solution ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290 through second channel 722,through the third lumen 774 of the dual lumen catheter 760, and into themixing chamber 724 due to the Venturi effect. The syringe plunger 290 pis used to regulate or stop flow of medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂) from the syringe 290.

The pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and medical solution ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) mixing in the mixing chamber 724 form an enrichedmedical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) that is then forced throughthe passageways 728 a-c of the spray tip 728. The force of thepressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) traveling through theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 780 and exiting through the spray tip aspart of an enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) projectsthe enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the distalsecond end 784 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 780 as a spray andonto the inner lumen of a vessel.

In accordance with yet another embodiment, the concepts underlying thepresent invention may be applied in the provision of a medicalsuspension delivery needle. Such a medical suspension delivery needlewould be useful in accessing vessel locations that are inaccessible bythe catheter described above. The needle embodiment may also be usefulin accessing locations that are limited in length and might not requirethe use of the suspension delivery catheter described above.

In accordance with such a medical suspension delivery needle embodiment,as shown with reference to FIGS. 11A and 11B, the medical suspensiondelivery needle 800 has a proximal first end 802, and a distal secondend 804. In contrast to the prior embodiments, the medical suspensiondelivery needle 800 combines the pressurized medical carbon dioxide(CO₂) and the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) at the proximalfirst end 802 of the medical suspension delivery needle 800 and createsan enrich medical fluid suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) via theinclusion of a porous membrane 815 at the distal second end 804 of themedical suspension delivery needle 800. With this in mind, the medicalsuspension delivery needle 800 includes a hollow and substantially rigidelongated needle body 810. The needle body 810 includes a needle hub 811at the proximal first end 812, which coincides with the proximal firstend 802 of the medical suspension delivery needle 800, thereof and asharp beveled edge 813 at the distal second end 814, which coincideswith the distal second end 804 of the medical suspension delivery needle800, thereof. With this in mind, and as will be appreciated based uponthe following disclosure, the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂)source (that is, the compressed medical fluid unit 12) and the medicalsolution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) source (that is, the syringe 290) arecoupled to respective first and second inputs 816, 818 found within theneedle hub 811 at the proximal end 804 of the medical suspensiondelivery needle 800.

As with the suspension delivery catheters discussed above, the medicalsuspension delivery needle 800 employs a spray tip 828 in conjunctionwith a multi-channel arrangement 881 where the pressurized medicalcarbon dioxide (CO₂) and medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) aremixed and forced through the spray tip 828 under the force generated bythe Venturi system implemented in accordance with the present invention.The Venturi-agitating tip assembly 880 in accordance with the medicalsuspension delivery needle 800 of the present embodiment includes thespray tip 828 and the multi-channel arrangement 881 that are separatedalong the length of the needle body 810. However, the Venturi-agitatingtip assembly 880 is integrally formed with the needle body 810 and theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 880 is considered to include a proximalfirst end 880 a (that coincides with the proximal first end 802 of thesuspension delivery needle 800) and a distal second end 880 b (thatcoincides with the distal second end 804 of the medical suspensiondelivery needle 800 and is found in the needle hub 811). As such, theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 880 includes the hollow cylindricalelongated body 810 of the medical suspension delivery needle 800 as wellas the internal flow controlling components discussed herein.

As for the needle body 810, and with the exception of the multi-channelarrangement 881 found in the needle hub 811 at the proximal first end802 of the medical suspension delivery needle 800, it is of a singlelumen construction and includes a single lumen cannula 810 c along thatportion distal to the multi-channel arrangement 881 and the hub 811.

The multi-channel arrangement 881 found in the needle hub 811 at theproximal first end 880 a of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 880includes first and second inputs 816, 818 for attachment to thepressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) source (that is, the compressedmedical fluid unit 12) and the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂)(that is, the syringe 290). The first input 816 leads to a first channel820 and the second input 818 leads to a second channel 822. The proximalfirst end 880 a of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 880, and thereforethe proximal first end 812 of the needle body 810, is formed with twocircular tubular female coupling recesses 832, 834, defining the firstand second inputs 816, 818. The coupling recesses 832, 834 are shapedand dimensioned for fluid coupling with the pressurized medical carbondioxide (CO₂) source (that is, the compressed medical fluid unit 12) andthe medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) (that is, the syringe 290),for example, via flexible cannulas 833, 835, in a manner allowing forthe flow of fluid from the compressed medical fluid unit 12 and thesyringe 290), and into the needle body 810.

The first channel 820 leads to, and is in fluid communication with, amixing chamber 824 located in the central portion 826 of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 880, that is, between the proximal firstend 880 a and the distal second end 880 b. Located at the distal secondend 880 b is a spray tip 828 having a passageway 828 a extending fromthe mixing chamber 824 to the exterior at the distal end 880 b of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 880.

The first channel 820 and the second channel 822 are interconnected in amanner creating a Venturi effect causing the pressurized medical carbondioxide (CO₂) to effectively pull the medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂) through the second channel 822 and into the mixing chamber 824where the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and the medicalsolution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) mix to form an enriched medicalsuspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂). This is achieved by providing thefirst channel 820 with a reduced diameter as it extends from theproximal first end 812 of the needle body 810 (that is, the first end820 a of the first channel 820) to the central portion 826 of theelongated body 810 (that is, the second end 820 b of the first channel820).

As mentioned above, the second channel 822 is in fluid communicationwith the first channel 820. This is achieved by the provisional of atransverse channel 830 connecting the second end 820 b of the firstchannel 820 with the second end 822 b of the second channel 822. Inparticular, the second channel 822 includes a first end 822 a adjacentthe proximal first end 812 of the elongated body 810 and a second end822 b adjacent the mixing chamber 824 (although not directly in fluidcommunication with the mixing chamber 824) and the transverse channel830.

The pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) source supplies thepressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and the medical solution ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) source supplies the carbon dioxide (CO₂). As such,the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) source is connected to, andin fluid communication with, the first channel 820 of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 880 and the medical solution of carbondioxide (CO₂) source is connected to, and in fluid communication with,the second channel 822 of the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 880. Inpractice, a syringe 290 containing medical solution of carbon dioxide(CO₂) is secured to the second input 818 at the proximal first end 802of the suspension delivery needle 800 via a flexible cannula 833 and thepressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the compressed medicalfluid unit 12 is secured to the first input 816 at the proximal firstend 802 of the suspension delivery needle 800 via a flexible cannula835. The medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290travels through second input 818 and into the second channel 822 whenpressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) enters the first channel 820and passes the transverse channel 830 into the mixing chamber 824 afterbeing actuated and released from compressed medical fluid unit 12. Thepressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) entering the Venturi-agitatingtip assembly 880 imparts negative pressure on the medical solution ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) in syringe 290 and draws the medical solution ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe 290 through second channel 822,through second input 818 of the medical suspension delivery needle 800,and into the mixing chamber 824 due to the Venturi effect. The syringeplunger 290 p is used to regulate or stop flow from syringe 290.

The pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and medical solution ofcarbon dioxide (CO₂) mixing in the mixing chamber 824 (to form anenriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂)) are then forcedthrough the remainder of the needle body 810, in particular, the singlelumen portion thereof, and through the spray tip 828 from which theenriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) is sprayed upon theinner lumen of a vessel. The force of the pressurized medical carbondioxide (CO₂) traveling through the Venturi-agitating tip assembly 880and exiting through the spray tip as part of an enriched medicalsuspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) projects the enriched medicalsuspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the distal second end 884 of theVenturi-agitating tip assembly 880 as a spray and onto the inner lumenof a vessel.

It will be appreciated the fluid mechanics of the medical suspensiondelivery needle embodiment are similar to those of the embodimentdiscussed with reference to FIGS. 10A-10D, and the dimensions wouldtherefore be similar.

As the medical suspension delivery needle embodiment shows, the conceptsunderlying the present invention may be implemented using a needle, thatis, a rigid cannula, or a catheter, that is, a flexible cannula.Accordingly, the term medical suspension delivery cannula should beconsidered to encompass both those embodiments implemented using acatheter and those embodiments using a needle.

It is appreciated this procedure can be performed under ultrasoundguidance or radiograph in order for the physician to control the amountof liquid to mix with the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) toform the enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂).

The present suspension delivery catheter may be used in the treatment ofvarious vascular ailments. Given that present suspension deliverycatheter employs pure CO₂ the present suspension delivery catheter isuseful in treating arterial ailments as well as treating vascularailments. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, it is notacceptable to use oxygen for certain procedures within the arterialsystem given the susceptibility of air embolisms within the arterialsystem. When using room air or oxygen, the chance of anoxia to thebrain, eschemia of the brain, air embolism and stroke are much moreprevalent than when using CO₂, which very rarely ever causes that typeof complication within the venous tree. Also when using room air oroxygen, you cannot use these substances/gases in the arterial tree ofthe human body. The potential treatments that may employ the presentsuspension delivery catheter include, but are not limited to thefollowing, microbead delivery in suspension, angiography, stentplacement, TIPS (transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt)procedures, magnetic bead delivery, oncology drugs and solutions, etc.

While this detailed description has set forth particularly preferredembodiments of the apparatus of this invention, numerous modificationsand variations of the structure of this invention, all within the scopeof the invention, will readily occur to those skilled in the art.Accordingly, it is understood that this description is illustrative onlyof the principles of the invention and is not limitative thereof.

Although specific features of the invention are shown in some of thedrawings and not others, this is for convenience only, as each featuremay be combined with any and all of the other features in accordancewith this invention.

While the preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it willbe understood that there is no intent to limit the invention by suchdisclosure, but rather, it is intended to cover all modifications andalternate constructions falling within the spirit and scope of theinvention.

1-8. (canceled)
 9. An apparatus for creation and delivery of enriched medical suspension, comprising: a compressed medical fluid unit containing pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂); a medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂); a suspension delivery needle including a multi-channel arrangement connecting a Venturi-agitating tip assembly to the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the compressed medical fluid unit and the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂), wherein the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) are mixed to form an enriched medical suspension.
 10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the compressed medical fluid unit includes an inlet port to which a pressurized gas cylinder containing carbon dioxide (CO₂) is selectively connected and an outlet port in communication with the inlet port.
 11. The apparatus according to claim 9, further including a syringe in which the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) is contained.
 12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the syringe includes a one-way valve.
 13. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the suspension delivery needle includes a first end having the Venturi-agitating tip assembly and a second end to which the compressed medical fluid unit and the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) are fluidly connected for the passage of pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) and medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂).
 14. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein forcing the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) through the Venturi-agitating tip assembly causes the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) to be drawn into the Venturi-agitating tip assembly such that the pressurized medical carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the compressed medical fluid unit and the medical solution of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the syringe to mix and form the enriched medical suspension.
 15. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the Venturi-agitating tip assembly includes a spray tip from which the enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) is sprayed.
 16. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the Venturi-agitating tip assembly includes a spray tip from which the enriched medical suspension of carbon dioxide (CO₂) is sprayed. 17-23. (canceled) 